Baltimore City Schools chief academic officer departs for Rutgers

Joan Dabrowski leaves her role after 5 years to take a position at the university.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 9:55pm

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Joan Dabrowski, the Chief Academic Officer for Baltimore City Public Schools, is leaving her position to take a role at Rutgers University. Dabrowski has served in her current role for the past 5 years.

Why it matters

Dabrowski's departure represents a significant change in leadership for Baltimore's public school system, which has faced ongoing challenges around student achievement and resource allocation. Her move to Rutgers University also highlights the competitive market for experienced education administrators.

The details

Dabrowski has served as the Chief Academic Officer for Baltimore City Public Schools since 2021. In this role, she has overseen curriculum development, teacher training, and academic programming across the district's 170 schools. Prior to joining Baltimore, Dabrowski held various leadership positions in school districts in Pennsylvania and New Jersey.

  • Dabrowski has served as Baltimore City Schools' Chief Academic Officer since 2021.
  • Dabrowski is departing her role in Baltimore to take a position at Rutgers University.

The players

Joan Dabrowski

The outgoing Chief Academic Officer for Baltimore City Public Schools, who is leaving her role to take a position at Rutgers University.

Baltimore City Public Schools

The public school district serving the city of Baltimore, Maryland, which is now searching for a new Chief Academic Officer.

Rutgers University

The public research university in New Jersey that has hired Dabrowski for a new role.

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What’s next

Baltimore City Public Schools will need to conduct a search for a new Chief Academic Officer to replace Dabrowski and ensure continuity in the district's academic leadership.

The takeaway

Dabrowski's departure represents a significant transition for Baltimore's public schools, which will need to find a capable replacement to oversee curriculum, instruction, and academic programming across the district.